A Pilot, Single-Blind, Randomized Controlled Study Evaluating the Use of Platelet-Rich Plasma for Hand Skin...

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Aesthetic Medicine
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) contains growth factors beneficial for collagen regeneration in aging skin.
• Aging skin on the hands is a common cosmetic concern.
• PRP is explored as a potential treatment for skin aging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of PRP injections versus saline for treating aging skin of the hands in women.
• To compare the cosmetic outcomes and patient-reported quality of life between PRP and saline treatments.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, randomized, controlled, single-blind clinical trial involving 18 women with aging hands.
• Participants received PRP injections in one hand and saline in the contralateral hand every 4 weeks for 12 weeks.
• Assessments included physician evaluation, clinical photography, and quality-of-life questionnaires at baseline, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in patient-reported outcomes or physician assessments were observed between PRP- and saline-treated hands (P ≥ 0.25).
• Patients reported similar levels of pain, discomfort, and burning/stinging sensations in both treatment groups.
• A blinded investigator found no discernible differences in clinical photographs comparing the two treatment modalities.

Conclusions:

• Three PRP injections over 12 weeks were ineffective for improving the appearance of aging hand skin in women.
• No significant difference was found compared to baseline or saline injections.
• PRP is not considered a reliable cosmetic option for managing hand aging, with age potentially influencing treatment response.